Governor Terry Branstad has proclaimed this week as Soil and Water Conservation Week noting the importance of the work that is being done to take care of the air, soil and water in Iowa. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey says this week provides a great opportunity to recognize all that has been done through efforts to stop soil erosion, and protect the water quality in the state. He adds the law that started the statewide conservation efforts spans more than 70 years.

Here in Washington County, they are working with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and Iowa State University to fulfill the conservation’s mission.

This week realizes that our abundance in our agriculture products and the quality of life we enjoy depend upon the proper use and management of soil and water resources. Soil and Water Conservation Week runs through Sunday.